CIRCUMSTANCES OF LOSSOn 24 November 1942, with their attack to the west stymied by strong Japanese defenses, the 8th Marines maintained defensive positions and began sending out combat patrols. Firefights developed along the lines as Marine units tried to find routes past the numerous Japanese machine guns.

At some point during the day’s fighting, Corporal Thomas Lewis was killed by a piece of flying shrapnel. His remains were reportedly buried in the field, but could not be found by later searches.